Ricoh GX200
Posted on June 25, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
The Ricoh GX200 compact digital camera for professionals is the 12 megapixel successor to last year’s GX100 model. Other significant improvements offered by the GX200 include better noise reduction thanks to the new Smooth Imaging Engine III processing engine, a larger 2.7-inch, 460,000 pixel HVGA LCD screen, 5fps continuous RAW mode and an electronic level function for horizontal and vertical shooting. It also offers the same 24-72mm zoom lens, 25mm thick body and removable tilting electronic viewfinder (optional accessory). The Ricoh GX200 costs £349.99, or £399.99 as a kit with the VF-1 electronic viewfinder. We’ve got some exclusive Ricoh GX200 sample photos, and our full review will follow later this week. Ricoh UK Press Release London, 24th of June 2008 New: RICOH GX200 A high-end, 24 mm super-wide-angle, optical zoom, digital compact featuring high resolution 12 megapixel CCD coupled with the latest imaging engine SIE III Tokyo, Japan June, 24, 2008 Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) has announced today the development and release of the GX200. The GX200 is able to reproduce high quality images from edge-to-edge with low noise and natural gradation. This camera succeeds the award winning Caplio GX100 compact digital camera introduced in April 2007. The GX200 inherits the popular features of the GX100 such as a 24 to 72 mm (35 mm film equivalent focal length) high-performance wide-angle optical zoom lens on a 25 mm thin pocketable compact body, a wide variety of manual shooting functions, and a removable tilting electronic viewfinder. The new GX200 achieves increased resolution via its 12 megapixel CCD and dramatic noise reduction with the addition of the new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine III. Already a popular part of the Caplio GX100, the high-resolution wide-angle lens unit has been further configured to enable picture taking at an even higher resolution. With a large wide-viewing angle 2.7-inch 460,000 dots HVGA LCD and an electronic level function, for horizontal and vertical shooting, the GX200 contains extensive shooting functions to enable camera lovers to enjoy and create stunning photographs. This model comes in two package types with different accessories. The GX200 package contains: rechargeable lithium ion battery, battery charger, AV cable, USB cable, CD-ROM, strap, and lens cap. The GX200 VF KIT package contains all the above accessories plus the electronic viewfinder. *The lens focal lengths used in this document are the equivalent focal length for a 35 mm camera. Main features of the new Ricoh GX200 1. Greater image quality through use of a 12 megapixel CCD, a new image processing engine and continuous RAW mode capture. • An effective 12 megapixel high-performance 1/1.7-inch CCD has been newly installed, with each pixel comes increased resolution. • The adoption of a new image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine III allows for greater control over the noise reduction process by the photographer without sacrificing resolution or saturation. • High image quality combined with a lens with greater backlight capability*. • *This is the 24 to 72 mm equivalent wide-angle zoom lens mounted on the previous model (Caplio GX100). It features a generous configuration of 11 elements in 7 groups, including superior aspheric surface lenses and high-refractive-index, low-dispersion lenses. This optimal configuration restricts distortion, chromatic aberration, and light falloff at edges for wide-angle operation while delivering aperture light settings from F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (tele-photo). In addition, ghosting has been further reduced through the improvements made to the lens unit. 2. Large, high-resolution 2.7-inch, 460,000-dots HVGA LCD. • The new 2.7-inch, 460,000-dots high-resolution LCD has a wide viewing angle and high contrast for distinct, easy viewing even outdoors. When thumbnail images are displayed, even the small 1/20 size images are clearly reproduced. 3. Electronic level utilizing an acceleration sensor to help keep the camera body horizontally or vertically level. • If the level setting is set on, when the camera is level, the level indicator becomes green in the picture display. Being able to check whether the image is level while looking at the display can be useful for keeping the camera level when composing pictures of landscapes, buildings, and other scenes where the horizon is visible. • It is possible to check whether the camera is level using the level sound setting. • The electronic level can also be utilized while using the viewfinder. 4. Extensive shooting functions and high operability. • Expanding buffer memory has made continuous shooting of up to five images possible in RAW mode, and it is also now possible to use the bracketing function to automatically change exposure settings when shooting in RAW mode. Other expanded RAW shooting capabilities include the ability to shoot 1:1 aspect ratio (vertical/horizontal ratio) format photography in RAW mode. • The number of mode dial “My Settings” options for defining your own shooting settings has increased to three. (There were two on the Caplio GX100.) • There are now one-push mode change function buttons both on the top surface and as one of the rear-surface cross keys. These buttons can be used for customized settings to, for example, to switch from JPEG to RAW or from colour to B&W. You can switch quickly to your preferred shooting mode when confronted with a sudden photo opportunity. • The AF target shift function, which before could only be used in macro shooting, is now also available in normal shooting. Without moving the camera, it is possible to shift the target for AF or AE or both. • The flash is manually raised by sliding the open switch. Flash functions on the GX200 have been further expanded with a light intensity adjustment function (-2.0 EV to +2.0 EV), a manual flash function in which intensity can be set, and a flash synchro setting where flash timing can be set as „1st Curtain“ or „2nd Curtain.“ • An auto rotate function makes it easier to view images on the picture display. • Even when shooting in high-contrast situations, the camera can use an auto level correction function to achieve an appropriate level of brightness while reducing areas that are overly bright or dark. • There is a distortion correction function (on/off selection possible) to automatically correct image distortion during shooting also usable with 19 mm conversion lens. • When in aperture priority mode, an auto aperture shift function will automatically adjust the aperture setting to prevent overexposure. 5. Enhanced image editing functions enable images to be manipulated in the camera. (1) Image colour tone correction (white balance compensation). • By adjusting green, magenta, blue, and amber tones, still image colour tone can be corrected, with the corrected image being recorded in the camera. (2) Image brightness and contrast correction (level compensation). • Still image brightness and contrast can be corrected with either auto or manual modes, with the corrected image being recorded in the camera. With manual correction, the image is corrected by adjusting the histogram. (3) Wide range of creative monochrome possibilities. • Colour, colour density, contrast, and sharpness can each be defined on a five-level scale. • Sepia, red, green, blue, and purple colour selections are possible. 6. Additional options further expand possibilities for camera use. • Lens cap (LC-1) opens and closes automatically in sync with lens movement. • 135 mm equivalent tele conversion lens (TC-1) with built-in hood. Filter attachment possible. When the tele conversion lens is attached, vignetting will occur when the zoom is not set to full telephoto. *The above two options can also be used on the Caplio GX100. 7. Removable electronic viewfinder can be attached. • A removable and tiltable electronic viewfinder can be attached (included in GX200 VF KIT). • The field of view provides 100% coverage without parallax and can display the same information as on the LCD picture display. • It is convenient for shooting in bright outdoor environments and enables shooting to be done in a conventional film camera style. List of GX200 Options Ricoh code Description RRP TC-1 Teleconverter lens £99.99 DW-6 19 mm Wide angle lens £99.99 LC-1 Tri-Lens Cap £19.99 HA-2 Hood and Adapter set for DW-6 and TC-1 £34.99 VF-1 Electronic Viewfinder £79.99 SC-45 Soft Leather case £29.99 ST-2 Ricoh GX Neck strap £14.99 AC-4c Mains adaptor £34.99 CA-1 Cable release £29.99 *1 The VF-1 LCD view finder is included in „GX200 VF KIT“. *2 The HA-2 hood and adapter is required when using the wide conversion lens or the tele conversion lens. When the wide conversion lens or the tele conversion lens is attached; the internal flash cannot be used because vignetting may occur. *3 The ST-1 neck strap for the GX/GX8 cannot be used. GX200 with electronic viewfinder included, will be available in the beginning of July 2008 at £399.99 inc vat., GX200 Standard is available at £349.99. Ricoh GX200 – Major Specifications CCD: Effective 12.1 million pixels (total 12.4 million pixels), 1/1.7-inch primary-colour CCD Lens: Focal length: f=5.1 to 15.3 mm (35 mm film equivalent focal length 24 to 72 mm. With Step Zoom set, the following fixed focal lengths possible: 24 mm, 28 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm, 72 mm) Aperture (F value): F2.5 (wide) to F4.4 (telephoto) Shooting Distance: Normal shooting: Approx. 30 cm to infinity (wide-angle), approx. 30 cm to infinity (telephoto) (from the front of the lens) / Macro shooting: Approx. 1.0 cm to infinity (wide-angle), approx. 4.0 cm to infinity (telephoto), approx. 1.0 cm to infinity (zoom macro) (from the front of the lens) Lens Construction: 11 glass elements in 7 groups Zoom Magnification: Optical zoom: 3x (35mm film equivalent focal length 24 to 72 mm) Digital zoom: 4x, up to 12x (288 mm equivalent) in combination with optical zoom Auto resize zoom: 6.3x, up to 18.9x (450 mm equivalent) in combination with optical zoom (VGA image) Focus Mode: Multi AF (CCD method) / Spot AF (CCD method) / Manual Focus / Snap / Infinity (with focus lock and AF aux. light) Motion Blur Reduction: CCD shift method image stabilizer Shutter Speed:*1 Still image: 180, 120, 60, 30, 15, 8, 4, 2, 1 to 1/2000 sec. / Movie: 1/30 - 1/2000 sec. Exposure Adjustment: Exposure Metering Mode: Multi Light Metering (256 segments) / Centre-weighted / Spot (TTL-CCD metering, AE lock available) Exposure mode: Program AE / Aperture Priority AE / Manual Exposure Exposure compensation: Manual Exposure Compensation (+2.0 to -2.0 EV in 1/3 EV steps) / Auto Bracket Function (-0.5 EV, ±0, +0.5 EV /-0.3 EV, ±0, +0.3 EV) ISO Sensitivity (Standard Output Sensitivity): AUTO / AUTO-HI / ISO64 / 100 / 200 / 400 / 800 / 1600 White Balance Mode: Auto / Outdoors / Cloudy / Incandescent Lamp / Fluorescent Lamp / Manual Settings / Detail White balance bracket function Flash: Built-in Flash Mode: Auto (during low light and when subject is backlit) / Red-eye Flash / Flash On / Flash Synchro / Manual Flash (Full, 1/1.4, 1/2, 1/2.8, 1/4, 1/5.6, 1/8, 1/11, 1/16, 1/22, 1/32) / Flash Off / Built-in Flash Range: Approx. 20 cm to 5.0 m (wide-angle), approx. 15 cm to 3.0 m (telephoto) (ISO AUTO / ISO 400, from the front of the lens) Flash Compensation: ±2.0 EV (1/3 EV steps) Picture Display: 2.7“ Transparent Amorphous Silicon TFT LCD, approx. 460,000 dots Shooting Mode: Auto Shooting Mode / Program Shift Mode / Aperture Priority Mode / Manual Exposure Mode / Scene Mode (Movie / Portrait / Sports / Landscape / Nightscape / Zoom Macro / Skew Correct Mode / Text Mode) / My Settings Mode Picture Quality Mode:*2 F (Fine) / N (Normal) / RAW (DNG file format)*3 Number of Recorded Pixels: Still image: [4:3] 4000×3000, 3264×2448, 2592×1944, 2048×1536, 1280×960, 640×480 [3:2] 3984×2656 / [1:1] 2992×2992 / Movie: 640×480, 320×240 / Text: 4000×3000, 2048×1536 Recording Media: SD memory card, SDHC memory card (up to 16 GB), Internal Memory (approx. 54 MB) Storage Capacity*4 (No. of Pictures) (Internal 54 MB Memory): Still image: 4000×3000 (RAW: 2 / F: 11 / N: 20), 3984×2656 (RAW: 2 / F: 13 / N: 23) 2992×2992 (RAW: 3 / (F: 15) / N: 27 3264×2448 (N: 30) / 2592×1944 (N: 48) 2048×1536 (N: 74) / 1280×960 (N: 133), 640×480 (N: 497) Storage Capacity (Time) (Internal 54 MB Memory): Movie:*5 640×480 / 30 frames/sec. (41 sec.), 640×480 / 15 frames/sec. (1 min. 22 sec.), 320×240 / 30 frames/sec. (1 min. 22 sec.), 320×240 / 15 frames/sec (2 min. 40 sec.) Recording File Format: Still image: JPEG (Exif Ver. 2.21)DCF*6, RAW (DNG) Movie: AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format Compliant) Other Major Shooting Functions: CONT. / S-CONT / M-CONT / Self-timer (operation time: approx. 10 sec. / 2 sec.), Interval Shooting (shooting interval: 5 sec. to 3 hr., in increments of 5 sec.)*7, Colour Bracket, B&W (TE), Noise Reduction, Histogram, Grid Guide, Electronic Level, Hot Shoe Other Major Playback Functions: Auto Rotate, Grid View, Enlarged View (maximum 16x), Resize Interface: USB 2.0 High-Speed (mini B cable), Mass Storage*8 / Audio Output 1.0Vp-p (75Ω) / Video OUT Video Signal Format: NTSC /PAL Power Source: Rechargeable Battery (DB60) ×1 / AAA Dry Alkaline Battery ×2 / AAA Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery ×2 / AC Adapter (AC-4c Optional) 3.8V Battery Consumption:*9 Based on CIPA Standard: DB-60 usage: approx. 350 pictures / AAA alkaline battery usage: approx. 30 pictures*10 Dimensions: 111.6 mm (W) × 58.0 mm (H) × 25.0 mm (D) excluding projecting parts Weight: Approx. 208 g (excluding battery, SD memory card, and strap) Accessories: approx. 30 g (battery and strap) Operating Temperature: 0ºC-40ºC * 1: The shutter speed upper and lower limits vary depending on the shooting mode and flash mode. * 2: The picture quality mode that can be set varies depending on the image size. * 3: A JPEG file in Normal 640 or in Fine/Normal mode with the same size as the RAW file is recorded at the same time. The DNG file format is a RAW image file format and is the standard format of Adobe Systems. *4: The estimated number of pictures that can be recorded or the estimated recording time. *5: The maximum movie length that can be recorded at one time is either 90 minutes or 4 GB. *6: Compatible with DCF and DPOF. DCF is the abbreviation for “Design rule for Camera File system,” a JEITA standard. (Full compatibility with other devices is not guaranteed.) *7: When the flash is set to [Flash Off]. *8: Mass storage mode is supported by Windows Me, 2000, XP, Vista, Mac OS9.0-9.2.2, and Mac SX10.1.2-10.5.2. *9: The number of remaining shots is based on the CIPA standard and may vary depending on usage conditions. This is for reference only. *10: Using Panasonic AAA alkaline batteries. * Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.A. and other countries. * Mac OS is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. in the U.S.A. and other countries.
Free Apple Training Day
Posted on June 18, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Square Group is hosting a free event dedicated to Apple’s Professional Creative Applications in London, UK. The Square event will focus on the latest offerings from Apple in pro photo, video and audio technology, including Aperture 2. It takes place at The Design Council in London’s Covent Garden on Thursday 3rd July. Join Square Group for a day dedicated to Apple’s Professional Creative Applications Pro Photo, Video and Audio - all on one day! Tuesday 17th June 2008 - Square Group, an Apple Premium Reseller, is today announcing that it will be hosting a free event on Thursday 3rd July dedicated to Apple’s Professional Creative Applications. Join the team from Square, and the experts from Apple, at The Design Council in London’s Covent Garden on Thursday 3rd July for a look at the latest offerings in pro photo, video and audio technology as follows: Aperture 2: Get A Closer Look – 10am-12pm See the difference with Aperture 2 - Apple’s groundbreaking photo editing and management software. Now it’s faster than ever to review shots, enhance images, manage massive libraries and deliver stunning photos. And with more than 100 incredible new features - including an intuitive new interface - with Aperture 2 your best shots just got better, faster. Final Cut Studio 2 – 12.30pm-2.30pm See for yourself how much faster and more powerful your work becomes when you upgrade. Running Final Cut Studio 2 on the new 8-core MacPro with Mac OS X Leopard offers an astounding array of new tools designed to improve every aspect of the post-production process. Logic Studio: See How It Sounds – 3pm-5pm Join us and hear for yourself how you can create, record, and perform your music faster and more professionally than ever before with Logic Studio. Whatever kind of music you make, with Logic Studio on a Mac you can have every tool you need to capture an initial idea and then create the music you want. Registration is from 9.30-10am with refreshments being served throughout the day. If you are interested in attending one of all of the sessions please visit http://www.squaregroup.co.uk/events-main.aspx for further information and a registration form.
Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009
Posted on June 13, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
The theme for the 32nd Nikon Photo Contest International is “At the heart of the image”. Last year’s contest attracted a total of over 47,000 images from more than 16,000 entrants in 135 different countries. All works will be judged by professional photographers working internationally and a combined total of 54 prizes will be awarded. Entries will be accepted from September 1 to November 30, 2008. Nikon Press Release Now’s your chance to move the world. June 5, 2008 - One of the world’s most renowned photo contests, entries to the 32nd Nikon Photo Contest International will be accepted from September 1 to November 30, 2008. A contest with an impressive history The Nikon Photo Contest International has been held by Nikon Corporation since 1969 to provide an opportunity for photographers around the world to communicate and to enrich photographic culture for professionals and amateurs alike. Renowned among photo enthusiasts worldwide, the contest has so far attracted more than 1,270,000 images from a total of 306,000 photographers. In fact, so popular has the contest become among photographers that a total of over 47,000 images were received from more than 16,000 entrants in 135 different countries for the 31st contest alone. This year’s theme: “At the heart of the image” “At the heart of the image” is not only the brand statement of Nikon Imaging Company, but it is also the theme of the 32nd contest. We have carefully selected categories as stated below and we look forward to receiving images expressing the emotions that are true to your heart. This year’s categories A Free subject: Express yourself freely, as it moves you. B My Planet: Express your world, whether that involves the environment, scenes from your daily life, or the people and things that stir your passions. With these categories, Nikon welcomes and embraces photographic creativity and encourages images of human happiness from all over the world. 54 prizes awarded by a panel of international photographers All works will be judged by professional photographers working internationally and a combined total of 54 prizes will be awarded. The Grand Prize will be awarded for the most outstanding photograph out of all the entries, regardless of category. 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes will be awarded to 16 winners in each category. The Emerging Talent award will recognize 4 winners and 16 runners-up from both categories to commend those aged under 30 for work that possess outstanding expressive power and conveys the energy of youth. Additionally, this year marks the 75th anniversary of the NIKKOR brand of lenses. To properly commemorate this event, a special prize will be awarded to the outstanding work that places second after the Grand Prize winner. Prize winners are planned to be announced in July 2009. An open opportunity A competition that truly traverses borders, the Nikon Photo Contest International embodies an unrivalled opportunity – providing photographers everywhere with a chance to showcase their talents and giving us all a valuable insight into the lives of those around us. An exhibition of the winning photographs is also planned, so please take advantage of this opportunity to submit your work.* *Details concerning the specific date and location will be announced in the future. Nikon Photo Contest International: Entry Information Entrant criteria The Nikon Photo Contest International is open to all photographers, professional or amateur, from any part of the world. Theme and categories Theme “At the heart of the image” Categories A Free subject: Express yourself freely, as it moves you. B My Planet: Express your world, whether that involves the environment, scenes from your daily life, or the people and things that stir your passions. Please note that the same photograph may not be submitted to both categories. Entry period Entries are accepted from September 1st to November 30th, 2008. Entries sent by conventional mail should be received either on or before November 30th, 2008. Entries sent via the Internet will be accepted until 24:00, November 30th, 2008, Japan time. See below for further details regarding entry via conventional mail and the Internet. How to apply Entries submitted in print by conventional mail Entries accepted in print are color or black-and-white photographs taken with 35mm film cameras, Advanced Photo System (APS) film cameras and digital still cameras, not including medium or large format digital cameras. Images that have been digitally edited with software are also accepted. Each entrant can submit up to 2 entries for each category (a total of 4 prints), with print dimensions of 19 x 24cm (8 x 10 inches) to 28 x 36cm (11 x 14 inches). Please download and print out an official Entry Form, available from July 10th, from the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 Web site (http://www.nikon-npci.com), make a photocopy of the official form or contact your nearest Nikon dealer for details on how to obtain an official Entry Form. The official Entry Form is available in 10 languages (Japanese / English / German / French / Spanish / Italian / Portuguese / Korean / Simplified Chinese / Traditional Chinese) and the rules and process of entry via conventional mail are explained fully within. Entries submitted as JPEG images via the Internet Accepted JPEG images are color or black-and-white graphic files taken with digital still cameras (not including medium or large format digital cameras) and scanned data of photographs taken with 35mm film cameras or Advanced Photo System (APS) film cameras. Images that have been digitally edited with software are also accepted. Each entrant can submit two JPEG images for each category (a total of 4 images), with a maximum size for each JPEG image of 10MB. JPEG images exceeding this size must be compressed to a maximum of 10MB prior to submission. Full details regarding entry via the Internet can be found on the online entry form, on the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 Web site (http://www.nikon-npci.com/). Please follow the rules and guidelines stated therein to submit your JPEG images. Judging and announcement of winners Photographers working internationally will be appointed by Nikon Corporation as judges to undertake selection of the winning photographs. The winners will be announced on the Nikon Photo Contest International Web site (http://www.nikon-npci.com/) and in an official press release by the end of July 2009. The Prizes A total of 54 winners will receive Nikon imaging products as shown in the table below. Winners of the Grand Prize, Emerging Talent Award and runners up will be given an opportunity to submit works in addition to their winning works for exhibition on the Nikon Photo Contest International Web site. Prize Name Number of Winners Prize Grand Prize 1 (selected from both categories) Nikon Digital SLR Camera D3 AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F2.8G ED AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm F2.8G ED Exhibition of photograph on the contest Web site*1 NIKKOR 75th Anniversary Award 1 (selected from both categories) Nikon Digital SLR Camera D300 AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor ED 10.5mm F2.8G AF-S VR Zoom-Nikkor ED 70-300mm F4.5-5.6G (IF) 1st Prize 2 (1 from each category) Nikon Digital SLR Camera D300 Speedlight SB-800 AF-S DX VR Zoom-Nikkor ED 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G (IF) AF-S VR Micro-Nikkor ED 105mm F2.8G (IF) 2nd Prize 10 (5 from each category) Nikon Digital SLR Camera D80 AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-85mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR 3rd Prize 20 (10 from each category) Nikon Digital SLR Camera D60 AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm F3.5-5.6G VR Emerging Talent Award*2 4 (selected from both categories) Nikon Compact Digital Camera COOLPIX P5100 Exhibition of photograph on the contest Web site*1 Runners-up: Emerging Talent Award*2 16 (selected from both categories) Nikon Compact Digital Camera COOLPIX S52c Exhibition of photograph on the contest Web site*1 Note: Nikon will notify the winners and select all prizes. Winners will not be able to select their prizes. Prizes are subject to change without notification and cash alternatives are not available. *1 An exhibition of the work of the Grand Prize winner, Emerging Talent Award winners and runners-up will be held on the Nikon Photo Contest International Web site. Winners will have the chance to show photographs other than their winning photographs for which they possess the copyrights. Winners will therefore be invited to submit photographs in addition to their winning works. The winner agrees to allow the organizer to use the winner’s works and any other works sent by the winner to the organizer at no charge to the organizer. All costs, fees and charges will be the sole responsibility of the winner. Winners may be required to provide Nikon with relevant tax information and to prepare relevant tax documentation prior to receiving the prize. Winning status will not be revoked if a winner does not, for any reason, submit work for the exhibition. *2 Winners of the Emerging Talent Award will be requested to submit official confirmation of their date of birth. In the event that such documentation is not provided, winning status will be revoked. For further details, please access the official Nikon Photo Contest International Web site at: http://www.nikon-npci.com/
Free Photoshop Book
Posted on May 31, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Sitepoint are giving away The Photoshop Anthology: 101 Web Design Tips, Tricks & Techniques, completely free! Available to download as a PDF, the 278 page book normally worth $29.95 is billed as “the ultimate Photoshop compendium for web designers”. The offer ends in 24 days time… Website: The Photoshop Anthology: 101 Web Design Tips, Tricks & Techniques
Olympus Sponsors Fiennes’ Everest Attempt
Posted on May 23, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Olympus is sponsoring Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ second attempt to climb Mt Everest, which aims to raise £3 million for Marie Curie Cancer Care. In April, Sir Ranulph Fiennes started the journey along with his team, and they aim to return home in early June. Olympus are supplying the flagship camera of the Four Thirds standard, the Olympus E-3, plus the ultra compact E410 and the Mju Tough cameras. Olympus UK Press Release Olympus takes photography to great heights Olympus is sponsoring Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ second attempt to climb Mt Everest. Three years after his previous attempt to conquer the magnificent Himalayan mountain range, Sir Ranulph will once again face the toughest challenge of his life to conquer the summit, this time from the Nepalese side. The ascent aims to raise £3 million for Marie Curie Cancer Care, a charity close to Sir Ranulph’s heart after cancer affected his family. In April, Sir Ranulph Fiennes started the journey along with his team from The Dream Guides Everest expedition; Kenton Cool, the expedition leader, and Rob Casserley recognised for his high altitude mountaineering skills. Joining them are reporters from the Daily Telegraph as well as an ITN film crew who will be there to capture the action. On reaching the summit the team also hopes to broadcast live into UK homes. For over 30 years, Sir Ranulph has enjoyed a long history with Olympus cameras taking them on many of his adventures. This expedition sees Sir Ranulph armed with the flagship of the Four Thirds standard, the Olympus E-3, the ultra compact E410 and the Mju Tough cameras. The High performance and reliability of the E- system coupled with the tough cameras will result in some iconic images of Sir Ranulph Fiennes successfully reaching the summit of Everest. The team aim to return home early June.
Hama Omega Carbon Tripods
Posted on May 11, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
The new Hama Omega Carbon tripod range is aimed at semi-professional photographers. The height of the Omega Carbon III tripod adjusts from 71 to 202 cms, and it weighs under 3kgs including a 3D precision ballhead. The smaller Omega Carbon II model has an extension length of 68 to 174 cms and weighs 2.5kgs including the tripod head. A tripod case is included with both models. The Hama Omega Carbon III costs 329 Euros, and the Omega Carbon II 269 Euros. Hama Press Release Hama presents its new Omega Carbon tripod series for semi-pros Carbon for connoisseurs Carbon, used colloquially to describe carbon-fibre-reinforced plastics, is used in products that require high stability at a relatively light weight, such as in automobile construction or sporting goods. The two new Omega Carbon II and III tripods from Hama take advantage of these characteristics, and are stable and lightweight at the same time. Lightweight giant: Omega Carbon III Omega Carbon III’s height adjusts from 71 to an imposing 202 centimetres, making the tripod ideal for taking impressive high-angle photos. Including the versatile 3D precision ballhead, the tripod weighs just under three kilograms; it is the perfect travelling companion. The completely removable central column helps with this, too. It can become a fully adjustable monopod, with a height of 54 to 158 centimetres; or, inserted upside-down into the tripod, it can be used for macro photography. Little brother: Omega Carbon II The little brother, the Omega Carbon II, with an extension length of 68 to 174 centimetres, weighs just 2.5 kilograms, including the tripod head. A crafty detail: the hook on the bottom of the extendable central column also functions as a holder for items such as the camera case, which means that they can be used to provide greater weight for improved stability. Comprehensive features What the two carbon tripods have in common are the comprehensive features. The stable 3D precision ball head is impressive. It features a separate ball and pan head lock, adjustable tension settings as well as a quick-release plate with a safety catch and locking screw. The four-piece tripod legs can be extended in three places and spread out in various patterns. The large, quick-action leg clamps help you fix the legs in the required position in a snap. Rubber feet with a ball joint and extendible steel spikes provide for completely secure positioning, even in rough terrain. The foam sheathing around the legs means that you will always have a comfortable and secure hold, even in the cold and during transport. The tripod case included with both models makes it easy to carry the tripod when you are on the go.
Nikon ViewNX 1.0.4
Posted on April 26, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Nikon have released a new version of ViewNX, a file browser which ensures quick access to images for instant viewing. Version 1.0.4 of Nikon ViewNX includes support for RAW images captured with the D3 and the Vignette Control option has been added. Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.0.4 (Windows) Website: Nikon ViewNX 1.0.4 (MAC) Changes in this version - Support for RAW images captured with the D3 (firmware Ver. 1.10 and later), and the Vignette Control option has been added. - When images captured with a Nikon digital-SLR camera are selected, the following 9 categories are displayed in the Camera Settings palette. File Info 1/File Info 2/Camera Info/Exposure/Flash/Image Settings/Picture Control/Optimize Image/GPS - Vignette Control items have been added to the Image Settings category of the Camera Settings palette. - Artist and Copyright items have been added to the File Info 2 category of the Camera Settings palette. - An issue that prevented proper display of JPEG images when a certain display profile was selected in the Color Management panel of the Options dialog, has been resolved. - An issue that prevented accurate reflection of print color management settings when Speed was selected for the Print Priority option in the Print dialog has been resolved. - An issue that caused an error to occur when the folder, to which an image saved in TIFF format with LZW compression using a third-party application, was selected in the File Directory palette has been resolved. - An issue that caused some characters to be displayed incorrectly when a single image file was selected and the name changed using Japanese characters has been resolved. Note: Scene mode information is not correctly displayed in the Camera Settings palette for images captured with the following COOLPIX cameras in the indicated shooting modes. All other operations function correctly. - COOLPIX S600 Active child mode - COOLPIX S550 Smile mode - COOLPIX S520 Food mode - For instructions on using this software see ViewNX Help in the ViewNX Help menu.
Mother’s Day Makeover for WD My Passport Essential
Posted on April 14, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
WD’s My Passport Essential portable USB hard drive is now available in 10 fresh new colours. My Passport Essential Drives are simple to use, light and easy to carry, and require no power adapter. “Our striking new color selection gives our customers an opportunity to express their unique style, while securely storing and carrying the massive amounts of rich content generated by higher resolution cameras, HD videos and music,” said Jim Welsh, vice president and general manager of WD’s branded products and consumer electronics groups. The price of the WD Passport Essential USB Drive with 320 GB is $179.99 USD, 250 GB capacity is $149.99 USD, and 160 GB is $119.99 USD. WD Press Release WD® PERSONALIZES PORTABLE STORAGE WITH A RAINBOW OF FASHIONABLE COLORS FOR ITS BEST-SELLING MY PASSPORT™ HARD DRIVES Small and Stylish, My Passport Essential TM USB Hard Drives Deliver 320 GB of Portable Storage in the Palm of Your Hand LAKE FOREST, Calif. – Apr. 9, 2008 – Just in time to make a perfect gift for Mother’s Day, WD® (NYSE: WDC) today introduced 10 fresh new colors for its My Passport™ Essential™ Portable USB Drives. Weighing in at less than 5 ounces, My Passport Essential USB Drives put almost a third of a terabyte of digital storage in the palm of your hand and are available now at select retailers. My Passport Essential Drives are simple to use, light and easy to carry, and require no power adapter—they are powered directly through the USB cable[1]. Equipped with sync and encryption software[2] for easy file transfer, the mega-capacity of the My Passport Essential Portable USB Drive makes it simple to securely carry thousands[3] of songs, videos or photos. “Our striking new color selection gives our customers an opportunity to express their unique style, while securely storing and carrying the massive amounts of rich content generated by higher resolution cameras, HD videos and music,” said Jim Welsh, vice president and general manager of WD’s branded products and consumer electronics groups. WD SyncÔ software allows consumers to easily synchronize essential personal files from their desktop PC to their My Passport drive. My Passport Portable USB Drives are great for file portability as well as keeping a backup copy of valuable content. Should owners misplace the drive, they know their data is protected with 128-bit encryption. Google™ software on the drive allows users to quickly locate files with the Google Desktop Search™ search tool, manage photos with Picasa™ photo organizer software and simplify Web searches with the Google Toolbar™ search bar. The new colors include: brilliant orange, super sunny yellow, raindrop blue, arctic white, deep viola, cherry red, ultra mint, real red, intense blue, and vibrant pink. A product specification sheet and photos of WD Passport Portable Drives are available on the company’s Web site at http://www.westerndigital.com/en/products/Products.asp?DriveID=391. Price and Availability WD’s My Passport Essential USB Drives are available now at select retail stores and from WD’s online store (http://www.shopwd.com). My Passport Essential USB Drives are offered in capacities of 160 GB, 250 GB and 320 GB. MSRP for the WD Passport Essential USB Drive with 320 GB is $179.99 USD, 250 GB capacity is $149.99 USD, 160 GB is $119.99 USD. About WD WD, one of the storage industry’s pioneers and long-time leaders, provides products and services for people and organizations that collect, manage and use digital information. The company produces reliable, high-performance hard drives that keep users’ data accessible and secure from loss. WD applies its storage expertise to consumer products for external, portable and shared storage applications. WD was founded in 1970. The company’s storage products are marketed to leading systems manufacturers, selected resellers and retailers under the Western Digital and WD brand names. Visit the Investor section of the company’s Web site (http://www.westerndigital.com) to access a variety of financial and investor information. [1] An optional cable is available for the few computers that limit bus power. [1] Windows®-compatible only [1] Results will vary based on file size and format, settings, features, software and other factors.
Ricoh GR DIGITAL II Firmware Update 2.0
Posted on April 10, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Ricoh have released a new firmware update, version 2.0, for the GR DIGITAL II compact digital camera. Ricoh’s function-enhancing firmware updates are developed in response to opinions and requests received from a large number of customers. The function-enhancing firmware and instructions for using these functions can be downloaded free of charge from the Ricoh website. Add the following features. • Switching shooting modes in My Settings mode At My Settings mode, you can switch shooting modes with the menu setting without turning the mode dial. • Magnified Playback using Up-down Dial/ADJ. Lever You can use also the up-down dial to enlarge an image during the playback mode, not only with the enlarged view button. • [Level Sound] in [Operation Sounds] You can choose [Level Sound] in [Operation Sound]. • [On]/[Off] for the [Power Button Lamp] When the power is turned on, you can now make a setting to light the power button lamp or not. Modified/added the following items. • Supports the flash from Sigma, [EF-500 DG ST/SUPER]. • Improved the white balance when you take a picture with the [Flash Synchro] in flash modes. • Modified the phenomenon that the information will not be displayed when the following combinations; setting the display off and the [Info Disp] on, and then switching the macro mode. • Modified the phenomenon that if being selected the [CL-BKT] in the [Auto Bracket], and if taking a picture with a long exposure time (15 seconds or longer) in the M mode, the color bracket processing will not completed and any keys will not work. Ricoh Press Release Ricoh releases first function-enhancing firmware update for GR DIGITAL II Usability enhanced based on customer requests in a firmware update program continued from the GR DIGITAL Tokyo, Japan – March 24 – Ricoh Co., Ltd. (President and CEO: Shiro Kondo) announced today that it will release on March 27 the first function-enhancing firmware update for its GR DIGITAL II, a high-resolution compact digital camera launched in November 2007. Successor model to the GR DIGITAL, which proved very popular in the two years following its October 2005 launch, the compact GR DIGITAL II achieves a level of image quality capable of satisfying professional photographers, experienced amateurs, and photo aficionados. Ricoh’s function-enhancing firmware updates are developed in response to opinions and requests received from a large number of customers via GR BLOG, surveys submitted at customer registration time, etc. They make it possible to update already purchased GR DIGITAL II cameras with the latest functions. For the earlier GR DIGITAL model, a total of five function-enhancing firmware updates were released (the first on March 24, 2006), and these popular updates were utilized by many people. This is the first such update for the GR DIGITAL II. The function-enhancing firmware and instructions for using these functions can be downloaded free of charge from the Ricoh website. (1) It is now easier to switch shooting modes when shooting in My Settings Mode. My Settings Mode enables the photographer to make the desired shooting settings in advance. This update enhances camera usability by making it possible to switch shooting modes without turning the mode dial when shooting in My Settings Mode. (2) It is now easier to display enlarged images in playback mode. For image playback mode, this update makes it possible to change the image magnification level using not only the Enlarged View button but also the up-down dial. In addition, it is also possible to keep the image enlarged when advancing to the next image using the ADJ lever. These functions are convenient to use when checking image content in playback. (3) It is now possible to specify only the level sensor sound and beep sound even when operational sounds (such as start sound and shutter release sound) are turned off. This expands the possibilities for shooting using the level sensor. (4) It is now possible to specify whether the power button LED lamp should turn on. The power button LED lamp normally turns on when the power is on, but it is now possible to switch to a setting where this lamp is always off.
Our Place World Heritage Photo Project
Posted on April 1, 2008 - Filed Under Art, News, Photo | Leave a Comment
Panasonic has renewed its support of the World Heritage photographic project, Our Place. The Our Place project is committed to presenting to a wide global audience, the wonder and significance of our planet’s most important cultural and natural locations. “Panasonic is proud to continue its support to help promote and protect the important UNESCO World Heritage sites. Through the Our Place project, we would like to change peoples’ minds, both about the value of World Heritage, and about Panasonic’s strong commitment to photographic culture. Our vision for Lumix is to create a new photo culture in the digital era,” said Mr. Tokikazu Matsumoto, Managing Director of the DSC Business Unit at Panasonic AVC Networks Company. Panasonic Press Release Panasonic continues to support the largest ever World Heritage photographic project by UNESCO, “OUR PLACE”. Panasonic is pleased to announce it’s continual support of the UNESCO partnered World Heritage photographic project, OUR PLACE – The World’s Heritage, by renewing a 3-year sponsorship contract starting from April 1, 2008. As part of the support of OURPLACE, Panasonic has invited 15 professional photographers from OUR PLACE to participate on a 6-day shooting tour at Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto between the 24th and the 29th of March. Participants were each given LUMIX camera equipment for the duration of the tour. OUR PLACE is a project initiated by New Zealand professional photographer Mr. Geoff Steven, in close association with the UNESCO World Heritage Centre. The OUR PLACE project is committed to presenting to a wide global audience, the wonder and significance of our planet’s most important Cultural and Natural locations, by building an exclusive photo archive of the World Heritage sites. OUR PLACE’s team of international photographers, including world-renown landscape photographer Mr. David Muench, have already visited World Heritage sites at more than 180 locations in 60 different countries. OUR PLACE is also the home of photo gallery displays, web publications, as well as print publications of its photo collection. Panasonic has been a strong supporter for the OUR PLACE project since April 2006, providing Lumix camera equipment for photo shooting, and using the OUR PLACE photo collection in Lumix promotion on a global scale. “Panasonic is proud to continue its support to help promote and protect the important UNESCO World Heritage sites. Through the OUR PLACE project, we would like to change peoples’ minds, both about the value of World Heritage, and about Panasonic’s strong commitment to photographic culture. Our vision for Lumix is to create a new photo culture in the digital era,” said Mr. Tokikazu Matsumoto, Managing Director of the DSC Business Unit at Panasonic AVC Networks Company. “As a company that believes in its responsibilities as a Global Citizen, Panasonic’s strong support for the OUR PLACE Project is a model example for all international commercial organizations,” said Mr. Geoff Steven, Director of OUR PLACE World Heritage. The OUR PLACE photo gallery will be on display in the corporate showrooms at Panasonic Centers in Osaka between April 24 and May 20 and in Tokyo between June 10 and July.
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